Perhaps aside from Haupai Puha, Milne and Robb are the two main players that weren't on the list for players to draw and two of the biggest names found themselves embroiled in battles albeit both were impressive also in sealing the win.
Humphries though impressed hitting a 99 average as he prevailed 6-3 against Milne who famously dumped out Fallon Sherrock a few years ago on the World Series. 'Cool Hand Luke' hit three 180's and 6/13 on the outer ring and books a tie with Michael Smith next up.
It was a supreme start for Humphries though with the test coming later on. He stormed into a 3-0 lead featuring a double double 92 checkout to head into the lead against the Kiwi. Milne held with an 81 checkout on the bull to make it 4-2. But Humphries pinned double nine to go one away. Milne though held again but couldn't trouble the Humphries throw as the World No.1 surged through.
While Price faced off against 'Big Rig' Ben Robb who often has showed promise without delivering on it for a player of his undoubted talent.
Price started the 6-3 win with a 113 checkout and after Robb hit back with back-to-back legs to level, Price produced a 10 darter and made it 3-2. Price broke to make it 5-3 as he hit an 84 checkout before hitting a 13 darter on double 20 to complete the feat. Next up is Peter Wright who started the day by seeing off Daniel Snookes 6-0 in a whitewash win in what was a procession for 'Snakebite'.
Samuel Gill is the Chief Content Officer (CCO) of DartsNews.com, a role he has held since 2020. He is responsible for editorial governance across the platform, including setting content standards, overseeing accuracy and consistency, and guiding long-term editorial strategy across professional darts coverage. Since joining, he has contributed more than 10,000 articles and editorial pieces, playing a central role in the development and daily operation of the site.
Based in Leicester, Samuel has extensive experience in darts media and has been closely involved in coverage of the professional darts circuit for several years. Within the UK darts community, he is a recognised figure known for his consistent editorial output and ongoing reporting on major tournaments and developments across the PDC calendar.
In his current role, Samuel works closely with editors and writers to ensure content meets clear journalistic standards, with a focus on source verification, editorial consistency, and timely updates when new, confirmed information becomes available.